Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but when it becomes excessive and interferes with daily life, it can be an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders involve an overwhelming fear or excessive worry about specific situations, places, objects, or activities, causing significant distress and impacting daily functioning.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing an anxiety disorder, including experiencing traumatic events, substance or alcohol abuse, stress related to illness, and inherited traits. Understanding these risk factors can help identify individuals who may benefit from appropriate diagnosis and treatment.